Emergency services notification from an ATM system and methods

ABSTRACT

Systems, methods, and software are described for facilitating contact with an emergency services provider from an ATM. An ATM network host computer system may receive a first communications signal from the ATM, comprising a request for emergency services. The ATM network host may determine an emergency services provider providing service to a geographic region which includes the ATM location. The ATM network Host may then transmit a second communications signal directed at the emergency services provider, wherein the second communications signal comprises the request for emergency services and the location of the ATM.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to “MULTI-PURPOSE KIOSK AND METHODS,” U.S.application Ser. No. 10/225,410, filed Aug. 20, 2002, the completedisclosure of which is also incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Automatic Teller Machines (“ATMs”) are widely used by customers offinancial institutions to perform transactions related to financialaccounts. ATMs may be used for a variety of purposes, including thedeposit or withdrawal of funds to such financial accounts. ATM's mayalso be used for credit card cash advances and other transactions, moneytransfers, payments (e.g., payment of a bill), balance inquiries, itempurchase items (e.g., stamps), and other types of transactions involvingthe making and receiving of payments. One of the most commontransactions involves the withdrawal of money from a checking or savingsaccount. The customer may insert an ATM card and input a personalidentification number (“PIN”), and may enter the desired withdrawalamount. If the transaction is approved, the requested amount isdistributed. The withdrawal amount may then be deducted from thecustomer's account.

One advantage of an ATM is that the transaction may be performedautomatically, and yet this fact may also be a source of potential harm.ATMs may allow the withdrawal of funds without interaction with any bankteller or other person. A growing problem has arisen around this fact,as ATM customers are susceptible to being required to withdraw money viathe ATM under threat of immediate physical harm. This situation,therefore, is made worse by the fact that there is often no way tonotify authorities about this ongoing crime because of the automaticnature of the transaction. There is, thus, a need in the art forimproved systems and methods to notify emergency service providers ofthe need for emergency services at an ATM.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to various embodiments of the invention, an ATM network hostcomputer system may receive a first communications signal from an ATM,the signal comprising a request for emergency services. The ATM networkhost may determine an emergency services provider providing service to ageographic region which includes the ATM. The ATM network host may thentransmit a second communications signal directed at the emergencyservices provider, wherein the second communications signal comprisesthe request for emergency services and the location of the ATM.

According to some embodiments, the request for emergency services maysimply comprise input of a personal identification number (“PIN”) by auser to the ATM. The first communications signal may, thus, comprise anencrypted, formatted message including an ATM card number, a personalidentification number (“PIN”), and an identifier for the ATM. Locationinformation for the ATM may also be included in the communicationssignal. According to certain embodiments of the invention, a user may beassociated with a first PIN and a second emergency PIN which bothauthorize an ATM transaction, wherein selection of the emergency PINinitiates a request for emergency services without any notice at theATM. In various embodiments, the request for emergency servicescomprises a response to a query displayed at the ATM to ascertainwhether emergency services are required. A response to such a query maycomprise selection of an option from a graphical menu displayed on ascreen of the ATM.

In certain embodiments, a Public Safety Answering Point (“PSAP”) maycomprise an intermediary between the ATM and the emergency serviceprovider, or may, alternatively, comprise the emergency servicesprovider itself. In some embodiments, the emergency services provider isdetermined by communication with a database which stores information ona plurality of emergency services providers, wherein each providerprovides service to a different geographic region. In variousembodiments, the emergency service provider may be selected by matchingthe zip code of the ATM with the zip code of a provider stored in thedatabase. In certain embodiments, a voice response unit, incommunication with the ATM network host, transmits the request on behalfof the host. In other embodiments, the request for emergency servicescomprises transmission of an electronic message.

According to various embodiments of the invention, the request foremergency services may include personal information relating to theuser. In such embodiments, a database may be configured to storepersonal information related to each of a plurality of users. In otherembodiments, the host may also be configured to establish a two-waycommunication connection between the ATM and the emergency servicesprovider, which may comprise voice, text, or video communication.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the presentinvention may be realized by reference to the following drawings. In theappended figures, similar components or features may have the samereference label. Further, various components of the same type may bedistinguished by following the reference label by a dash and a secondlabel that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the firstreference label is used in the specification, the description isapplicable to any one of the similar components having the same firstreference label irrespective of the second reference label.

FIG. 1A illustrates a communications system that may be used to contactan emergency services provider from an ATM according to variousembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram of an exemplary ATM that may be used tocontact an emergency services provider according to various embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flow diagram that illustrates a method that may be used tofacilitate contact with an emergency services provider over an ATMnetwork according to various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram that illustrates a method that may be used tocontact an emergency services provider from an ATM according to variousembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram that illustrates a method that may be used tocontact an emergency services provider from an ATM via a PSAP accordingto various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram that illustrates a method for contacting alocal PSAP from an ATM using an emergency PIN according to variousembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram that illustrates a representative devicestructure that may be used in various embodiments of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

This description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is notintended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of theinvention. Rather, the ensuing description of the embodiments willprovide those skilled in the art with an enabling description forimplementing embodiments of the invention. Various changes may be madein the function and arrangement of elements without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

Thus, various embodiments may omit, substitute, or add variousprocedures or components as appropriate. For instance, it should beappreciated that in alternative embodiments, the methods may beperformed in an order different than that described, and that varioussteps may be added, omitted or combined. Also, features described withrespect to certain embodiments may be combined in various otherembodiments. Different aspects and elements of the embodiments may becombined in a similar manner.

It should also be appreciated that the following systems, methods, andsoftware may be a component of a larger system, wherein other proceduresmay take precedence over or otherwise modify their application. Also, anumber of steps may be required before, after, or concurrently with thefollowing systems, methods, or software.

I. Overview: Systems, methods, and software are described forfacilitating contact with an emergency services provider from an ATM.According to certain embodiments of the invention, the ATM network hostcomputer system may receive a first communications signal from the ATMcomprising a request for emergency services. The ATM network host maydetermine an emergency services provider providing service to ageographic region which includes the ATM. The ATM network host may thentransmit a second communications signal directed at the emergencyservices provider, wherein the second communications signal comprisesthe request for emergency services and the location of the ATM.

II. System Architecture: FIG. 1A illustrates an example of aCommunications System 100 within which various embodiments of thepresent invention may be included. The System 100 components may bedirectly connected, or may be connected via a Network 115, which may beany combination of the following: the Internet, an IP network, anintranet, a wide-area network (“WAN”), a local-area network (“LAN”), avirtual private network, the Public Switched Telephone Network (“PSTN”),an ATM network, or any other type of network supporting datacommunication between devices described herein, in differentembodiments. A Network 115 may include both wired and wirelessconnections, including optical links. Many other examples are possibleand apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. Inthe discussion that follows, a Network 115 may or may not be notedspecifically. If no specific means of connection is noted, it may beassumed that the link, communication or other connection between devicesmay be via a Network 115.

1. ATM: The System 100 may include an ATM 105. An ATM 105 may comprise amachine, kiosk, or other apparatus which automatically dispenses cashupon certain user input and authentication procedures. FIG. 1Billustrates an exemplary block diagram 175 of an ATM 105 that may beused to facilitate communication with an emergency services provider140. An ATM 105 may include a user interface 180. A user interface 180may comprise multiple components, such as a card reader 182, display184, keypad 186, and printer 188. A card reader 182 may be used toreceive a card (e.g., ATM card, credit card, driver's license,smartcard, etc.) to obtain a financial account number, card number, orother identifier to identify the account for which the transaction willtake place. A biometric input device may receive biometric information,and biometric authentication may be used in conjunction with, or inplace of, a card reader. A variety of such biometric input devices areknown in the art. A display 184 may be used to prompt a user forresponses needed to perform a transaction, and to display information tothe user. Additionally, as will be described in further detail below, adisplay 184 may be used to display a query from an ATM Network HostComputer System 120.

A keypad 186 may be used to receive input from the user, such as apersonal identification number (“PIN”) associated with the user'sfinancial account, transaction selections, dollar amounts fortransactions, emergency information, and other information related to auser's transaction with the ATM 105. A keypad 186 (which may optionallycomprise a touchscreen, either stand alone or a component of thedisplay) may be used to receive input from a user comprising a requestto contact an emergency services provider 140. A user interface 180 mayalso include a printer 188 that may be used to print a receipt of atransaction. Other items, such as a microphone and speaker, or a videocamera, may be integrated into or otherwise coupled with a userinterface 180.

An ATM 105 may further include code (“ATM code”) 190 stored on a storagemedium associated with the ATM 105, and such code may include programsor applications designed to implement methods of the invention. An ATM105 may comprise a computing device, as described below, and, thus, mayfurther include a processor, and a communications interface 192. The ATMcode 190 may be used to process a transaction or other request initiatedby a user of the ATM 105. The ATM code 190 may direct the display toshow a query to a customer regarding whether he or she is in need ofemergency services, or may be written to direct the display of such aquery originating from an ATM Network Host 120. The ATM code 190 mayreceive a request from a user, via the user interface 180, to contactemergency services (e.g., via entry of the emergency PIN, in response toa request, etc.), and use the communications interface 192 tocommunicate with an ATM Network Host Computer System 120 though the ATMnetwork 110 or other Network 115. The ATM code 190 may encrypt ordecrypt any portion of a communications signal to be sent or receivedvia the communications interface 275. It should also be appreciated thatin alternate embodiments, the ATM 105 may comprise fewer or additionalcomponents than described above.

A request for emergency services may be initiated with a number ofdifferent actions at the ATM 105. By way of example, a request foremergency services may comprise the input of a PIN. According to certainembodiments of the invention, a user may be associated with a first“traditional” PIN configured to authorize a transaction at an ATM 105. Asecond, different “emergency” PIN may be associated with a user whichwill also authorize an ATM transaction, but selection of the emergencyPIN may also initiate a request for emergency services without anynotice at the ATM 105. This process will be described in greater detailbelow. In various embodiments, a request for emergency services maycomprise a response to a query displayed at the ATM 105 to ascertainwhether emergency services are required. In still other embodiments, therequest may further comprise keypad, voice or other input indicating theneed for emergency services, the nature of the emergency, or informationdescribing the specific needs. There are a variety of potentialconfigurations of the ATM 105 or the ATM code 190 in which to receivesuch a request. However, with certain configuration (such as thetraditional/emergency PIN configuration described above), noreconfiguration of an ATM 105 is required.

There are a number of ways in which a request for emergency services maybe transmitted from an ATM 105 to an ATM Network Host 120. The requestmay be transmitted in a communications signal. A communications signal,as that term is used throughout the Application, may comprise any numberof signals (i.e., the information may be sent in any number of differentsignals or packets). The communications signal may comprise anencrypted, formatted message including an ATM card number, a PIN, and anidentifier for the ATM 105. Other information may be included inaddition to, or instead of, this information, such as the location ofthe ATM 105. As the term is used herein, an “encrypted, formattedmessage” may include any formatted message in which any part of themessage is encrypted. In some embodiments, only the PIN is encrypted. Asthe term is used herein, “location of the ATM” specifically may compriseany of the following: 1) an address, 2) an identifier which allows theATM Network Host 120 to query a Database 125 to determine the locationof the ATM 105, as discussed below, 3) a phone number for the ATM 105sufficient to allow an ALI database to identify the location, 4) GPS orother location information which otherwise allows the ATM Network Host120 to determine the location of the ATM 105.

There are a number of additional actions that may be taken by an ATM 105in response to a request for emergency services. Such responses may beprogrammed into the ATM Code 190, or the ATM 105 may be directed to takesuch action by the ATM Network Host 120. In response to the request foremergency services, an ATM 105 may limit the amount of cash availablefor dispersal. Such a limit may be a flat amount for each customer, maybe customer specific, or may be related to the time of day or thelocation of the transaction. In some embodiments, the ATM may delaydispensing the cash in response to a request for emergency services. Adisplay may provide a message indicating, by way of example, “pleasewait” or “transaction processing.” In addition, in response to a requestfor emergency services, an ATM may activate a video camera, or otherwisetake pictures with another camera, either of which may becommunicatively coupled with the ATM 105 or ATM Network Host 120.

2. ATM Network: The communications interface 192 may be directly orindirectly communicatively coupled with ATM network 110 to provide forcommunication with an ATM Network Host 120. By way of example, thecommunications interface 192 may comprise a modem, a network interfacecard, or other wireless card connecting the ATM 105 to a phone line, a 4wire dedicated phone line, a dedicated data line, a wireless network, anoptical network, or other communication medium known in the art. ATMcode 190 may use the communications interface 192 to communicate withthe ATM Network Host 120 to thereby authenticate a user's financialaccount number and PIN, approve a transaction, or transmit a request foremergency services. Other information may also be requested and receivedusing the communications interface 192. By way of example, two-wayvoice, text message, or other electronic communication between the ATM105 and the emergency services provider 140 may be conducted via thecommunications interface 192 as well.

As noted above, an ATM 105 may have a direct, or indirect, communicationcoupling to an ATM network 110. Therefore, the communications interface192 may be communicatively coupled with an other Network 115, and such aNetwork 115 may be communicatively coupled with the ATM network 110. Forexample, an ATM 105 may be communicatively coupled to ATM network 110through a Network 115 of a financial institution associated with the ATM105. By way of example, the ATM network 110 may comprise a network suchas the NYCE® network, the Pulse® network, the STAR® network, and thelike. An ATM 105 may also be communicatively coupled directly with aNetwork 115 of a financial institution associated with the ATM 105. Avariety of combinations are possible, and apparent to those skilled inthe art.

3. ATM Network Host and Database: The ATM Network Host Computer System120 may receive a request to contact an emergency services provider 140as described above, or may receive the request via other means. The ATMNetwork Host 120 may include, for example, one or more server computers,workstations, web servers, or other suitable computing devices. The ATMNetwork Host 120 may be fully located within a single facility ordistributed geographically, in which case an ATM network 110 or otherNetwork 115, as described above, may be used to integrate differentcomponents. An ATM Network Host 120 may comprise any computing deviceconfigured to process, manage, complete, analyze, or otherwise address arequest to authenticate an ATM user, a request to authorize atransaction, or a request to contact an emergency services provider 140from an ATM 105, either directly or indirectly.

Application software running on the ATM Network Host 120 may receive arequest to contact an emergency services provider 140, query theDatabase 125 to identify an emergency services provider 140 serving thelocation of the ATM 105, and transmit the request for emergency servicesand the location of the ATM 105 to the identified emergency servicesprovider 140. Such software may also include the functionality toreceive a request to authorize a transaction, and may authorize thetransaction as appropriate.

In some embodiments, an ATM Network Host 120 receives a communicationssignal from the ATM 105. In some embodiments, the signal may comprise anencrypted, formatted message which includes an ATM card number, apersonal identification number (“PIN”), and an identifier for the ATM105. As noted above, an “encrypted, formatted message” may include anyformatted message in which any part of the message is encrypted. In someembodiments, only the PIN is encrypted. The request may also containother information, such as the location of the ATM 105. The ATM NetworkHost 120 may decrypt the signal, and process the formatted message todetermine whether the PIN matches the standard (i.e., traditional) PINassociated with the card number. If not, a check for the emergency PINmay be conducted, and if matched, the transaction may be approved.However, an emergency services provider 140 may also be contacted. Incertain embodiments, the address of the ATM 105 and notice of use of theemergency PIN are transmitted to the emergency services provider 140.Also, the user card number, issuing bank, date, time, or any combinationof this or other information may be provided as well. According tovarious embodiments of the invention, the ATM Network Host 120 mayreceive the request for emergency services in response to a query at theATM 105, or in any manner otherwise apparent to those skilled in theart. Similar information may be transmitted to the appropriate emergencyservices provider 140 in such circumstances.

An ATM Network Host 120 may be in communication with a Database 125,which maintains or otherwise stores information on a plurality ofemergency service providers 140. The Database 130 may comprise one ormore different databases, which may be located within a single facilityor distributed geographically, in which case a Network 115, as describedabove, may be used to integrate different components. According todifferent embodiments of the invention, the Database 125 may include anynumber of tables and sets of tables. One or more of the databases may bea relational database. The Database 125 may be incorporated within theATM Network Host 120 (e.g., within its storage media), or may be a partof a separate system. The ATM Network Host 120 may, therefore, comprisethe Database 125. The Database 125 may be organized in any mannerdifferent than described above to provide the functionality called forby the various embodiments, as known by those skilled in the art.

The Database 125 may contain information related to the plurality ofemergency service providers 140 described above. The Database 125 mayinclude information related to the geographic region or regions servedby each provider, and the services (e.g., fire, police, ambulance, etc.)provided by each provider. In some embodiments, a region may compriseone or more zip codes or portions thereof. The Database 125 may furtherinclude contact information and preferences for each provider. Invarious embodiments, the ATM Network Host 120 includes applicationsoftware comprising complex mapping functionality in order to evaluateand compare the location of an ATM 105 with the geographic regionsserved by the different providers. Such mapping tools are well known inthe art. The geographic regions served by each provider may vary withtime or other factors. The functionality included in the tools may,thus, include the ability to formulate boundaries of geographic regionsgiven certain rules governing their formation. Any number of inputs maydictate how such boundaries will be formed. There are a variety of waysknown in the art to create variable boundaries of geographic regionsbased on different input parameters. One skilled in the art willrecognize how such tools may be utilized in various embodiments of theinvention.

The Database 125 may also contain information related to the location ofa plurality of ATMs 105. In such embodiments, the ATM Network Host 120may receive the request to contact emergency services with an ATMidentifier. The ATM identifier may be a group of numbers or characters,or other unique data set, which specifically identifies the particularATM 105. The ATM Network Host 120 may query the database to match theidentifier with the particular ATM 105 and associated location. Thelocation information may include the address, city, state, zip code, mapof the geographic region surrounding the location, architectural orother plans, or other information. Any combination of the foregoinglocation information for the ATM 105 may be transmitted to the emergencyservices provider 140. In some embodiments, the Database 125 may bequeried to match the zip code of an ATM 105 location with the zip codeincluded in the region of service for an emergency services provider140.

The Database 125 may also contain personal information related to eachof a plurality of users. Such personal information may include, by wayof example, a listing of medical conditions, a listing of allergies, alisting of medications, contact information for a doctor or othermedical professional, a listing of emergency contacts, personalinformation (name, home address, work address, age, gender, height,weight, additional description), special medical directions, any otherrelated information, or any part or combination thereof. Each user ofthe plurality may be associated with at least one identifier, such as anATM card account number, a credit card account number, a social securitynumber, a bank account number, a savings account number, a stored-valueaccount number, a personal identification number, a unique characterset, a unique data set, or any combination thereof. When a request foremergency services is received that includes an identifier, the ATMNetwork Host 120 may be configured to query the Database 125 to matchthe personal information related to the identifier associated with theuser of the ATM 105. The ATM Network Host 120 may then transmit a subsetof the information with the request to the emergency services provider140.

The ATM Network Host 120 may be communicatively coupled to a Network 115to allow communication with an emergency services provider 140. As notedabove, the ATM Network Host 120 may transmit the request for emergencyservices, the location of the ATM 105, and other information to anemergency services provider 140. The transmission may comprise anelectronic message, such as an e-mail or text message, or may compriseany other form of electronic message. The transmission may also comprisea telephone message from a telephone voice response unit (“VRU”) 125 incommunication with the emergency services provider 140. In suchembodiments, the ATM Network Host 120 may communicate the requisiteinformation to the VRU 125 in data form, and the VRU 125 may create anaudio message based on the data. A number of such units are commerciallyavailable, and such technology is well known in the art. In still otherembodiments, the ATM Network Host 120 may be in communication with aservice center with human operators to contact the appropriate emergencyservices provider 140.

4. Emergency Services Provider: According to various embodiments of theinvention, an emergency services provider 140 may comprise a PublicSafety Answering Point (“PSAP”), PSAP operator, other emergencydispatcher, police, fire, ambulance, hospital, private security service,or other local, state, or federal authorities. An ATM Network Host 120may communicate with an emergency services provider 140 over a Network115 (including the PSTN 150), and the transmission may be directly fromthe ATM Network Host 120. In some embodiments, the transmission maycomprise a telephone call placed to an emergency services provider froma VRU 125. In still other embodiments, the transmission may be routedthrough one or more intermediaries, wherein the message may be modifiedbefore reaching the emergency services provider.

FIG. 1A illustrates some of the variations. For example, an electronicmessage may be transmitted from the ATM Network Host 120 over theNetwork 115. The message may comprise the request for emergencyservices, the location of the ATM 105, and other information. Such amessage may be transmitted directly to an emergency services provider140-a. In other embodiments, such a message could first be directed to aPSAP 135-a (in this case comprising an intermediate entity), and thenforwarded to the emergency services provider 140-a serving the locationof the ATM 105.

In another embodiment, the VRU 125 may transmit a voice message over thePSTN 150 to a PSAP 135-b (comprising the emergency services provider 140in this embodiment). Alternatively, the voice message may be directed ata dispatcher 145, who may or may not be associated with the PSAP 135-b.The dispatcher 145 may direct the PSAP 135-b to query the ALI database155 to display the location information associated with the originatingtelephone number at the ATM 105. Such information may allow thedispatcher to better direct the emergency services provider 140-b to thelocation associated with the telephone number associated with the ATM105.

Attention is directed to the area designated by a dashed line andidentified by reference numeral 160, which illustrates a group ofentities that may each be considered an emergency services provider(i.e., the dispatcher 145 may comprise the provider 140-b; or the PSAP135-b and the ALI database 155 may comprise the provider 140-b). Inother embodiments, however, the dispatcher 145 or PSAP 135-b may beserving as intermediaries.

It is assumed that ALI databases, and other databases providing similarlocation identification functionality, will evolve. There are, thus, avariety of ways to determine the location of the ATM 105. The ATMlocation may be provided by the ATM 105 or the ATM Network Host 120, ormay be determined via a PSAP 135-b through an ALI database or otherdatabase providing similar functionality. Having described variousaspects of the invention, a better understanding of the embodiments ofthe system may be gained with further discussion of the various methodsof facilitating contact, and the systems and software that support them.

III. Exemplary Embodiments: FIG. 2 sets forth an exemplary embodiment200 of the invention, illustrating an example of a method forfacilitating contact with an emergency services provider from an ATM105. At block 205, an ATM Network Host 120 may receive a firstcommunications signal from an ATM 105 comprising a request for emergencyservices. At block 210, the ATM Network Host 120 determines an emergencyservices provider 140 providing service to the geographic region withinwhich the ATM 105 is located. The ATM Network Host 120 may then, atblock 215, transmit a second communications signal directed at theemergency services provider 140, wherein the second communicationssignal comprises the request for emergency services and the location ofthe ATM 105.

FIG. 3 sets forth an alternative exemplary embodiment of the invention,illustrating an example 300 of a method that may be used to contact anemergency services provider from an ATM 105 according to variousembodiments of the present invention. At block 305, a user may input acard into an ATM 105, and may input an emergency PIN into the keypad ofthe ATM 105 at block 310. The ATM 105, at block 315, may transmit theemergency PIN. The ATM Network Host 120 receives the emergency PIN atblock 320.

The ATM Network Host 120 may determine, at block 325, the location andzip code of the ATM 105. At block 330, the ATM Network Host 120 mayquery the Database 125 which stores information on a plurality ofemergency service providers 140. Each provider may serve a differentgeographic region, and each region may comprise one or more zip codes.At block 345, the ATM Network Host 120 may match the zip code of the ATM105 with a zip code in the Database 125 to select an emergency servicesprovider 140 serving the region in which the ATM 105 is located.

At block 340, the ATM Network Host 120 may transmit a communicationssignal directed at the selected emergency services provider 140. Thesignal may comprise notice that an emergency PIN has been selected, andfurther comprise the location of the ATM 105. At block 340, the ATMNetwork Host 120 may establish a two-way communication link between theATM 105 and the emergency services provider 140. At block 350, the usermay communicate with the emergency services provider 140 over theestablished two-way link, using the microphone and speaker coupled withthe ATM 105. The area designated by a dashed line and identified byreference numeral 355 designates actions that may be undertaken by anATM Network Host 120.

FIG. 4 sets forth yet another exemplary embodiment of the invention,illustrating an example 400 of a method that may be used to contact anemergency services provider 140 from an ATM 105 via a PSAP 135 accordingto various embodiments of the present invention. At block 405, a usermay input a card into an ATM 105, and may input a regular PIN into thekeypad of the ATM 105 at block 410. The ATM 105, at block 415, maytransmit a first communications signal comprising an encrypted,formatted message which includes an ATM card number, the PIN, and an ATMidentifier. The ATM Network Host 120 may receive the firstcommunications signal at block 420.

At block 425, the ATM Network Host 120 may verify the validity of thePIN, comparing the entered PIN to the PIN authorized for the cardnumber. At block 430, the ATM Network Host 120 may transmit a query backto the ATM 105 to ascertain whether the user is in need of emergencyservices. At block 435, the ATM 105 may receive the query, and maydisplay the query at block 440. The user, at block 445, may respond tothe query by affirming or otherwise initiating a request for emergencyservices. The input may simply comprise selecting a button or other iconon the keypad or touchscreen. In alternative embodiments, the input maycomprise further input with additional information provided (e.g., adescription of the emergency situation). At block 450, the ATM 105 maytransmit a second communications signal comprising the request, and theadditional input information. The ATM Network Host 120 may receive thesecond communications signal at block 455.

At block 460, the ATM Network Host 120 may query the Database 125 whichstores personal information on a plurality of users, each userassociated with an ATM card number. At block 465, the ATM Network Host120 may identify a subset of personal information associated with theuser, wherein the personal information is identified via the ATM number.At block 470, the ATM Network Host 120 may transmit the request, the ATMlocation, and the subset of the personal information to a PSAP 135 in anelectronic message. At block 475, the PSAP may receive the electronicmessage. At block 480, the PSAP 135 (serving as an intermediary in thiscase), may forward the electronic message to an emergency servicesprovider 140 serving the region in which the ATM 105 is located. Thearea designated by a dashed line and identified by reference numeral 485designates actions that may be undertaken by an ATM Network Host 120.

FIG. 5 sets forth still another exemplary embodiment of the invention,illustrating an example 500 of a method that may be used to contact anemergency services provider 140 from an ATM 105 according to variousembodiments of the present invention. At block 505, a user may select atraditional PIN, usable to authorize a transaction at an ATM 105. Theselection may take place, for example, when setting up an account orover the Internet. At block 510, the user may select an emergency PIN,which is also usable to authorize an ATM transaction. Use of theemergency PIN may also initiate a request to contact emergency serviceswithout any notification at the ATM 105. In this way, it may functionlike a silent alarm. At block 515, a user may input a card into an ATM105, and may input an emergency PIN into the keypad of the ATM 105 atblock 520. The ATM 105, at block 525, may transmit a firstcommunications signal comprising an encrypted, formatted message whichincludes an ATM card number, the emergency PIN, and the location of theATM 105. The ATM Network Host 120 may receive the first communicationssignal at block 530.

At block 535, the ATM Network Host 120 may decrypt the signal, andprocess the formatted message to determine whether the PIN matches thetraditional PIN associated with the ATM card number. If so, the ATMNetwork Host 120 may authorize the transaction at block 540. If not, acheck for the emergency PIN may be conducted at block 545. If neitherPIN matches the ATM card number, the transaction authorization requestmay be denied at block 550. If the input PIN matches the emergency PINassociated with the ATM card, the transaction may be approved at block540, with no notice of the use of the emergency PIN at the ATM 105. Withuse of the emergency PIN, the ATM Network Host 120 may also query theDatabase 125 which stores information on a plurality of PSAPs 135 atblock 555. The PSAPs 135 each comprise emergency services providers 140in this embodiment, with each serving a different geographic region. Atblock 560, the ATM Network Host 120 selects a PSAP 135 serving a regionwhich includes the location of the ATM 105. The ATM Network Host 120, atblock 565, may direct the VRU 125 to place a telephone call to theselected PSAP 135, the call information including the location of theATM 105 and notice of use of the emergency PIN.

IV. Computing Device Structure: A device structure 600 that may be usedfor a computer, server, ATM network host computer system 120, PSAP, VRU,or other computing device described herein is illustrated with theschematic diagram of FIG. 6. This drawing broadly illustrates howindividual system elements of each of the aforementioned devices may beimplemented, whether in a separated or more integrated manner. Theexemplary structure is shown comprised of hardware elements that areelectrically coupled via bus 605, including processor(s) 610 (which mayfurther comprise a DSP or special-purpose processor), storage device(s)615, input device(s) 620, and output device(s) 625. The storagedevice(s) 615 may comprise a computer-readable storage media readerconnected to any computer-readable storage medium, the combinationcomprehensively representing remote, local, fixed, or removable storagedevices or storage media for temporarily or more permanently containingcomputer-readable information. The communications system 645 maycomprise a wired, wireless, or other type of interfacing connection thatpermits data to be exchanged with other devices. The communicationssystem(s) 645 may permit data to be exchanged with a network (including,without limitation, the Network 175).

The structure 600 may also comprise additional software elements, shownas being currently located within working memory 630, including anoperating system 635 and other code 640, such as programs orapplications designed to implement methods of the invention. It will beapparent to those skilled in the art that substantial variations may beused in accordance with specific requirements. For example, customizedhardware might also be used, or particular elements might be implementedin hardware, software (including portable software, such as applets), orboth.

V. Conclusion: It should be noted that the methods, systems and devicesdiscussed above are intended merely to be exemplary in nature. It mustbe stressed that various embodiments may omit, substitute, or addvarious procedures or components as appropriate. For instance, it shouldbe appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the methods may beperformed in an order different than that described, and that varioussteps may be added, omitted or combined. Also, features described withrespect to certain embodiments may be combined in various otherembodiments. Different aspects and elements of the embodiments may becombined in a similar manner. Also, it should be emphasized thattechnology evolves and, thus, many of the elements are exemplary innature and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of theinvention.

It should be noted that the methods, systems and devices discussed aboveare intended merely to be exemplary in nature. Specific details aregiven in the description to provide a thorough understanding of theembodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specificdetails. For example, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms,structures, and techniques have been shown without unnecessary detail inorder to avoid obscuring the embodiments. Also, it is worth noting thattechnology evolves, and that terms should be interpreted accordingly.

Also, it is noted that the embodiments may be described as a processwhich is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, astructure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describethe operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can beperformed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of theoperations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when itsoperations are completed, but could have additional steps not includedin the figure.

Moreover, as disclosed herein, the terms “storage medium” or “storagedevice” may represent one or more devices for storing data, includingread only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, corememory, magnetic disk storage mediums, optical storage mediums, flashmemory devices or other machine readable mediums for storinginformation. The term “computer-readable medium” includes, but is notlimited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices,wireless channels, a sim card, other smart cards, and various othermediums capable of storing, containing or carrying instructions or data.

Furthermore, embodiments may be implemented by hardware, software,firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or anycombination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middlewareor microcode, the program code or code segments to perform the necessarytasks may be stored in a machine readable medium such as a storagemedium. Processors may perform the necessary tasks.

Having described several embodiments, it will be recognized by those ofskill in the art that various modifications, alternative constructions,and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of theinvention. For example, the above elements may merely be a component ofa larger system, wherein other rules may take precedence over orotherwise modify the application of the invention. Also, a number ofsteps may be required before the above elements are considered.Accordingly, the above description should not be taken as limiting thescope of the invention, which is defined in the following claims.

1. A method for facilitating contact with an emergency services providerfrom an Automatic Teller Machine (“ATM”) comprising: receiving, at anATM network host computer system, a first communications signal from theATM comprising a request for emergency services; determining theemergency services provider providing service to a geographic regionwhich includes the ATM; and transmitting a second communications signaldirected at the emergency services provider, wherein the secondcommunications signal comprises the request and location of the ATM. 2.The method of claim 1, wherein the request for emergency servicescomprises input of a personal identification number (“PIN”) by a user tothe ATM.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first communicationssignal comprises an encrypted, formatted message including an ATM cardnumber, a personal identification number (“PIN”), and an identifier forthe ATM.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the identifier for the ATMincludes location information.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein, a useris associated with a first PIN and a second PIN, and the selection ofeither PIN by the user authorizes a transaction at the ATM from anaccount associated with the user; the second PIN further comprises anemergency PIN, wherein selection by the user initiates the request foremergency services; and the transmitting step is undertaken without anynotice of receipt of the request for emergency services from the ATMnetwork host computer system to the ATM.
 6. The method of claim 1,further comprising: receiving, at an ATM network host computer system,an initiating communications signal from the ATM comprising anencrypted, formatted message including an ATM card number and a personalidentification number (“PIN”): and wherein the request for emergencyservices comprises a response to a query displayed at the ATM toascertain whether emergency services are required.
 7. The method ofclaim 6, wherein the response comprises the selection of an option froma graphical menu displayed on a screen of the ATM.
 8. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the determining step includes communication with aPublic Safety Answering Point (“PSAP”).
 9. The method of claim 1,wherein the determining step further comprises: communication with adatabase which stores information on a plurality of emergency servicesproviders, wherein each provider of the plurality provides service to adifferent geographic region; and a query of the database by the ATMnetwork host computer system to determine the emergency servicesprovider that provides service to the geographic region that includesthe location of the ATM.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein theemergency services provider comprises a Public Safety Answering Point(“PSAP”).
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the transmitting stepcomprises a transmission from a voice response unit in communicationwith the ATM network host computer system.
 12. The method of claim 1,wherein the transmitting step comprises a transmission of an electronicmessage.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the second communicationssignal includes personal information relating to the user.
 14. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the second communications signal is firsttransmitted to an intermediate entity, and from the intermediate entityit is directed at the emergency services provider.
 15. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising: establishing a two-way communicationconnection between the ATM and the emergency services provider.
 16. Asystem for facilitating contact with an emergency services provider froman Automatic Teller Machine (“ATM”) comprising: an ATM, wherein the ATMis configured to: receive input from a user comprising a request foremergency services; and transmit a first communications signalcomprising a request for emergency services; and an ATM network hostcomputer system, in communication with the ATM, wherein the ATM networkhost computer system is configured to: receive the first communicationssignal; determine where the ATM is located; determine an emergencyservices provider providing service to a geographic region whichincludes where the ATM is located; and transmit a second communicationssignal directed at the emergency services provider, the second signalcomprising the request and location of the ATM.
 17. The system of claim16, wherein the request for emergency services comprises input of apersonal identification number (“PIN”) by a user to the ATM.
 18. Thesystem of claim 16, further comprising a database, in communication withthe ATM network host computer system.
 19. The system of claim 18,wherein, the first communications signal further comprises an identifierassociated with the user; the database is configured to store personalinformation related to each of a plurality of users, each user of theplurality associated with at least one identifier; the ATM network hostcomputer system is configured to query the database to identify a subsetof the personal information related to the identifier associated withthe user; and the request includes the subset.
 20. The system of claim18, wherein the identifier is selected from the group consisting of: anATM card account number, a credit card account number, a social securitynumber, a bank account number, a savings account number, a stored-valueaccount number, a personal identification number, a unique characterset, a unique data set, and any combination thereof.
 21. The system ofclaim 18, wherein, the database stores information on a plurality ofemergency services providers, wherein each provider of the pluralityprovides service to a different geographic region; and the ATM networkhost computer system is configured to query the database to determinethe emergency services provider that provides service to the geographicregion that includes the location of the ATM.
 22. The system of claim21, wherein, each different geographic region comprises at least one zipcode; and the ATM network host computer system is configured to use azip code for the ATM to match to one of the at least one zip codes inthe database to determine the emergency services provider.
 23. Thesystem of claim 18, wherein the ATM network host computer systemcomprises the database.
 24. The system of claim 16, wherein, the ATMfurther comprises a microphone and a speaker, and is capable of audiocommunication through the ATM network host computer system; and the ATMnetwork host computer system is configured to establish an audiocommunication connection between the ATM and the emergency servicesprovider.
 25. The system of claim 16, wherein the user initiates arequest for emergency services after the ATM has validated identity ofthe user.
 26. The system of claim 16, wherein the ATM is furtherconfigured to: delay dispersing cash to the user in response to theinput.
 27. The system of claim 16, wherein the ATM is further configuredto: automatically decrease, in response to the input, a maximum amountof cash that may be withdrawn by the user.
 28. The system of claim 16,wherein the ATM is further configured to: capture an image, in responseto the input, of an area adjacent the ATM with a camera which iscommunicatively coupled with the ATM.
 29. The system of claim 25,wherein upon validation of the identity of the user, the ATM isconfigured to query the user to ascertain whether emergency services arerequired, and the request for emergency services comprises a response tothe query.
 30. An ATM network host computer system, the system having atleast one computer readable storage medium having at least onecomputer-readable program for operation of the computer system, whereinthe computer-readable program includes instructions to: receive a firstcommunications signal from the ATM comprising a request for emergencyservices; determine an emergency services provider providing service toa geographic region which includes the ATM; and transmit a secondcommunications signal directed at the emergency services provider, thesecond signal comprising the request and location of the ATM.
 31. Themethod of claim 30, wherein, a user is associated with a first PIN and asecond PIN, and the selection of either PIN by the user authorizes atransaction at the ATM from an account associated with the user; and thesecond PIN further comprises an emergency PIN, wherein selection by theuser initiates the request for emergency services.